The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi Branch, has directed its members to avoid travelling to nine local government areas in the state identified as kidnapping hotspots.
The Branch Chairman, Aminu Hassan, issues the directive in a statement released in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday, following the abduction of a member, Isyaku Muhammad-Danjuma, along the Ibeto–Birnin Kebbi route in Niger State on October 1.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the affected areas include Bagudo, Suru, Kamba (in Dandi), Bunza, Kangiwa (in Arewa), Dirin Daji (in Sakaba), Ribah, Kanya, and Augie. The association reaches this decision during an emergency meeting held on Saturday to address the worsening security situation affecting lawyers in the region.
Hassan says the NBA strongly condemns the abduction of its member and expresses serious concern over the increasing cases of insecurity across the country. As part of its resolutions, the association directs members to boycott court sessions from October 7 to October 10 in protest and to draw attention to the state of insecurity in Nigeria.
“After the boycott, members are also advised to suspend all terrorism-related cases, including those involving kidnapping, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms, until further notice,” Hassan states.
He adds that the association is in touch with relevant authorities to secure the safe release of the kidnapped lawyer. The NBA also plans to collaborate with the judiciary to create alternative court venues in safer locations to protect members from harm.
As reported by Mediaplusng.com, the branch chairman calls on the federal and state governments as well as security agencies to take urgent and effective action to restore peace and public confidence. He commends members of the Bar, the judiciary, and the media for their solidarity and urges everyone to remain united in the pursuit of justice and peace.
